Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Coordinator of the Synod Study Group, has called on Indian bishops to work with efficiency, dedication, and a strong sense of mission to ensure that the Church in India continues to bear lasting fruit.
Speaking during his homily at the Holy Mass on the second day of the 36th Plenary Assembly of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) at XIM University in Bhubaneswar, the retired Archbishop of Bombay underscored the importance of proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to Gospel values.
Cardinal Oswald highlighted the challenges posed by restrictive legislation impacting the Church’s mission, institutions, and outreach programs.
He emphasized that efficiency, transparency, and commitment to the people will help the Church navigate through these difficult times and continue its mission.
The Plenary Assembly, attended by 204 bishops, engaged in a spiritual conversation, a reflective discernment method designed to facilitate attentive listening to God’s voice.
The process encouraged prayerful listening, mutual sharing, and collective discernment to align the Church’s mission with divine wisdom.
As part of the assembly’s agenda, bishops were divided into 16 groups to discuss and refine the ten key priorities for the Church in India.
These priorities emerged through an extensive consultation process involving laity, religious members, priests, and bishops, reflecting the collective aspirations and concerns of the faith community.
To enhance their discernment, the bishops dedicated time to silence, prayer, and Eucharistic adoration, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit.
This period of reflection allowed them to detach from external distractions and focus on God’s plan for the Church’s future.